~By Kali Steward~

"Caring for our seniors is perhaps the greatest responsibility we have.Those who walked before us have given so much and made possible the life we all enjoy" ~John Hoeven


With the aging population families feel the constant struggle to care for their elderly parents as a family caregiver,while balancing out their everyday life.The most disheartening aspect of taking care of parents is burning out as their caregivers because like most families they never utilize services that may be available to them, such as home care that can ease the stress and responsibility by helping families figure out their parent self care ability and their needs, while assisting them is key to building a positive relationship at a moment when the clarity of their future seems so bleak..Surely not what they envision in their golden years, depending on their children.By actively sharing decisions with parents it allows them to still have control of their healthcare process while maintaining their dignity.Adult children must always realize they are their parents children,not their parents.Transitioning into being  the family caregiver can be very rewarding by remembering these key element:

1) Seek support from other caregivers,you don't have to do it alone

2) Taking care of your own health & well being so you can care for love ones 

3) Accept help by delegating siblings/ family members to help by taking turns in the caregiving

4) Communicating effectively with primary care Doctor if any health issues should arise

5) Being a care giver is hard work, take time for yourself by taking respite breaks by hiring someone to assist

6) Make sure your mental health is balanced.Most family care givers suffer depression because being overwhelmed

7) Being open to current resources & technologies that's available to help care for your love ones 

8) Keeping medical information organized and update

9) Legal documents also should be in order

10) Be your own cheerleader,you deserve all the credit.Taking care of your love ones is not easy.However, the  most rewarding job

Happy Cinco de Mayo

Many often wonder what is Cinco De Mayo-( 5th of May) that is celebrated in Mexico & the United States.The Mexican army in 1862 celebrated the victory over France at the  of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican war (1861-1867).Which is, not considered a big holiday in Mexicio."Since then Cinco de Mayo has evolved even more in the United States while increasing awareness of culture,heritage & many Mexican- American population.Cinco de mayo traditions include: food,parades,mariachi music,dancing, street festivals in cities& towns in Mexico & the United States". 

***********************Enjoy the day with celebration***********************

By: K.Steward

Since World War II,during the time of the 20th century many childhood diseases has been prevented by being immunized, proper nutrition,reduced infectious diseases like the measles (or) the out break of influenza of the 1900's that claimed so many lives.where today it's can be prevented and treated due to better healthcare & quality of life.With life expectancy in the aging population increasing so rapidly in the United States & other countries such as Japan,life expectancy now exceeds 83 years in Japan" the current leader" and 81 years old in other countries.in which,babies born in the 1900's did not live past the age of 50 according  to the "National Institute on Aging".The graph below gives a clearer indication of the disparities among other countries compared to the United States.

I've always been raised to respect my elders,nothing resonated more in my life as a child then to hear this from my parents,who's parents was my grandparents whom I loved dearly.My life has been enriched even more knowing that I'm giving back by volunteering my time effortlessly to those who have sacrificed for their families as well as Mines & many others.As the elderly population has increased it's our responsibility as a community not to forget those who have paved the way relentlessly for the next generation by showing them some respect.

These are simple mannerism that should be taught from the beginning on how to respects your elders:

• Address them properly-Use their name if that is what they agree to.Always use Mr. (Or) Ms.
• Shake Hands-When greeting or meeting for the first time always shake hands,a simple gesture shows you have manners
• Make eye contact & smile-when approaching or greeting your elders,always make eye contact.It not only shows you acknowledge their presence it shows respect.Smiling also may make their day brighter.
• Speak clearly-Keep your voice clear where you can be understood & speak louder so the person can hear you.
• Offer Assistance-When elderly person is entering an entrance always hold the door & allow them to go first.If something is at high reach, get it for them.Pay attention to the disability as well making sure to give them a seat to sit down.It not only makes their lives easier.It would be greatly appreciated.
• Give your time & attention-Most elderly love company & enjoy conversations on many topics.Play board games with grandparents or other elderly person and show you care.They also love to watch movies.
• Show Your Love-The elderly person could be a grandparent,aunt,uncle,parent,or other family member,show them that you love him or her.A great way to connect is to ask about your ancestors & offer to make a memory scrap book to learn about them & discuss their life experiences.Teach your children how to behave among elders.
• Show Good Manners-Most elders was taught good mannerism when they was children,and deserve respect, such as,"Please" & Thank you".They expect us to follow their lead by respecting those who came before us.